As Spring Festival has been inscribed into UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage (ICH), the upcoming Year of the Snake marks the first-ever "ICH edition" of this beloved tradition.
In Dongying of East China's Shandong province, where the Yellow River meets the sea, centuries-old customs blend with the festive spirit, bringing over 900 ICH projects to life.
This Spring Festival, Dongying's streets will be filled with the sounds of ICH folk songs with lively steps of Yangko. Across the city, events like the Yellow River Bazaar and the Chengnan Temple Fair will immerse visitors in tradition. Cultural venues will host hands-on exhibitions like lantern riddle games, offering a deeper connection to local heritage.
People in Dongying perform a traditional drum dance, rooted in Yellow River culture, to celebrate Spring Festival. [Photo/WeChat account: sdxcweixin]
The Yellow River Bazaar is a feast for the senses, featuring traditional handcrafts and signature delicacies like crispy Shikou roast chicken and flavorful Yellow River fish soup. Children marvel at handmade straw-weaved crabs and clay snake figurines, keeping ancient crafts alive in a modern setting.
Workers prepare decorated steamed buns, an ICH of Dongying, to celebrate Spring Festival. [Photo/IC photo]
More than a celebration, this festival displays how heritage thrives in everyday life. Whether through performances, cuisine, or crafts, Dongying invites you to embrace its rich traditions and start Chinese New Year with culture and joy.
How will you celebrate this heritage-filled Spring Festival?
